Introduction For Pindari Glacier
Planning to explore the majestic Pindari Glacier in Uttarakhand? I’ve done this trek, and let me tell you—it’s not just scenic, it’s spiritual. This glacier, which is 3,353 meters high and nestled deep within the Kumaon Himalayas, provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But before you tie your shoelaces and zip your backpack, here’s everything you need to know about reaching Pindari Glacier in the most practical and direct way possible—without wasting your time.
Where is Pindari Glacier Located?
The Pindari Glacier is located in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand, deep within the Nanda Devi range. The nearest base point is Khati village, which is only accessible by foot after reaching the last motorable point at Kharkiya. The trail to the glacier is part of the Pindari Glacier Trek, a moderate-level trek suitable for both beginners and seasoned hikers.
Best Time to Visit Pindari Glacier
Don’t make the mistake of heading here during the wrong season. The best window to plan your trek is from April to early June and September to mid-November. During these months, the skies are clear, and the trail remains accessible. Monsoons can be risky due to landslides, and winters bring heavy snow, cutting off access completely.
How to Reach Pindari Glacier (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Reach Kathgodam (The Nearest Major Railhead)
- By Train: There are excellent train connections to Kathgodam from Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata. I took the Ranikhet Express myself from Delhi; it’s quite convenient and runs overnight.
- By Road: You can also drive or take a Volvo bus from Delhi to Kathgodam, which is around 280 km (about 7-8 hours).
Step 2: Travel to Bageshwar
From Kathgodam, hire a cab or board a shared jeep to Bageshwar, which is roughly a 7-hour drive through the beautiful Kumaon hills. Make sure to stock up on essentials here—Bageshwar is the last proper town with ATMs and medical stores.
Step 3: Get to Loharkhet
Once in Bageshwar, drive around 20 km to Loharkhet, the official starting point of the trek. The road is narrow but drivable.
Step 4: Start Trekking from Kharkiya via Khati
- Kharkiya is the last motorable point. From here, it’s a trek to Khati village, one of the most beautiful Himalayan villages I’ve ever visited.
- There are plenty of oak and rhododendron woodlands along the clearly defined trail. The locals are friendly, and the homemade food is comforting beyond words.
Step 5: Trek to Pindari Glacier Base Camp
From Khati, you’ll trek through Dwali and Phurkia before finally reaching the glacier’s base camp. The final stretch is breathtaking—icy streams, snow-capped peaks, and the gushing Pindar River for company.
Total Distance and Trek Duration
- Trek Length: Around 90 km round trip
- Duration: 7-9 days (depending on your pace and acclimatization)
- Altitude Gain: Starts from ~1,200 meters at Loharkhet and goes up to 3,353 meters at the glacier
What to Pack for the Trek
If you’re trekking independently, you’ll need to carry:
- Sturdy trekking boots
- Layered clothing (temperature can vary wildly)
- Rain cover
- Sleeping bag and tent (unless you’re with a guided group)
- Water purification tablets
- Snacks and energy bars
Also, keep your ID proof and medical certificate handy. Uttarakhand tourism often requires a fitness declaration for treks above 3,000 meters.
Do You Need a Guide for Pindari Glacier?
Technically, no. But practically? I highly recommend going with someone who knows the trail. The paths after Dwali can get confusing, and weather changes rapidly. I went on Pindari Glacier Trek with a group organized by The Searching Souls. They didn’t oversell—they just provided what was essential: knowledgeable trek leaders, emergency support, and great food. Having someone to guide you through tricky terrain and altitude sickness risks can be a literal lifesaver. If you’re doing this trek for the first time or want to focus more on enjoying the views than figuring out logistics, a group trek is the way to go.
Where to Stay Along the Way
- Bageshwar: Budget hotels and guesthouses
- Loharkhet & Kharkiya: Basic lodges or camps
- Khati, Dwali, Phurkia: Homestays and government rest houses (book in advance if you can)
If you’re with a trekking group, your accommodation and meals are sorted. If going solo, carry a tent or plan your night halts around villages with known guesthouses.
Permit and Entry Requirements
Good news: No special permits are required to enter the Pindari region if you’re an Indian national. However:
- Register at the forest check posts en route (especially at Loharkhet and Khati)
- Carry valid government ID
- If you’re a foreign national, you may need to register with the local police or forest department
Always check the Uttarakhand Forest Department site for updates or closures.
Safety Tips for the Trek
- Acclimatize properly—don’t rush the climb
- Drink enough water and stay off alcohol
- Keep weather updates handy; rains and snow can disrupt plans fast
- Carry a basic first aid kit
- Let someone back home know your itinerary
Local Culture and Respect
Khati and nearby villages are mostly inhabited by warm, humble locals. Always:
- Ask before clicking photos
- Don’t litter—carry trash back with you
- Buy local when you can; it supports the community
Mobile Network and Connectivity
Forget mobile data after Bageshwar. From Loharkhet onwards, the signal drops off completely. BSNL might work patchily in Khati, but don’t count on it. Use this as an excuse to truly unplug.
Cost Breakdown (Approximate)
| Item | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Train to Kathgodam (one-way) | 400 – 800 |
| Taxi to Bageshwar | 1,000 – 1,500 |
| Trek (self-planned) | 5,000 – 7,000 |
| Trek with The Searching Souls | 14,000 – 17,000 |
If you’re trekking solo, the costs are flexible but come with more responsibility. Trekking with a group like The Searching Souls gives peace of mind, especially in a remote trail like this.
Conclusion
More than just a trip, the Pindari Glacier Trek is a memory preserved in stillness and snow. If you crave crisp air, mind-clearing solitude, and jaw-dropping Himalayan views, this is it. Getting there isn’t hard, but it does require some planning. Take the right route, pace yourself, and trust me—you’ll come back with stories that stay with you for life.
